Bosnia Navy Stormproof Flip-top Lighter with Revolver Emblem
Decorative Object / Cigarette Lighter · Bosnia Navy (Likely a generic or novelty brand from the Far East during the mid to late 20th century). While not a prestigious silversmith, it follows the Zippo-style windproof lighter design.
Pattern: Utility Design with Applied Revolver Emblem; Novelty / Militaria-style souvenir.
Type
Decorative Object / Cigarette Lighter
Maker
Bosnia Navy (Likely a generic or novelty brand from the Far East during the mid to late 20th century). While not a prestigious silversmith, it follows the Zippo-style windproof lighter design.
Material
Polished Chromium-plated brass or steel. Despite the metallic appearance, this is not sterling silver; it is a base metal with a chrome or nickel-plated finish. The revolver emblem is likely cast pot metal or zinc alloy.
Dimensions
Standard lighter size: approximately 2.25 inches (5.7 cm) height, 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) width. Weight estimated at 55-65 grams including the fuel insert.
Description
A classic flip-top windproof lighter featuring a polished chrome finish and a distinctive 3D revolver emblem. This item represents the massive global market for Zippo-style 'stormproof' lighters. Though not fine silver, its high-shine finish and thematic box with bold 'Bosnia Navy' branding make it a curious piece of pop-culture tobacco memorabilia.
Key Features
3D Revolver motif, 'Bosnia Navy' original box, 'Stormproof' branding, and typical five-barrel hinge construction.
Material & Composition
Polished Chromium-plated brass or steel. Despite the metallic appearance, this is not sterling silver; it is a base metal with a chrome or nickel-plated finish. The revolver emblem is likely cast pot metal or zinc alloy.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish on the lid and lower case, now showing significant surface scratching (scuffing). Features a raised, applied cast metal revolver in high relief. The box features graphic print with the brand name 'Bosnia Navy' and health warnings.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found stamped on the base: 'Bosnia Navy', 'Stormproof', or 'Windproof'. No sterling (.925) or silver purity hallmarks are present, which confirms it is a plated utility item.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped two-piece case (lid and body) connected by a five-barrel hinge. The decorative emblem is applied with adhesive or a small solder point. Interior contains a removable steel fuel and flint mechanism.
Functional Features
Spring-loaded flip-top lid, cam-lever mechanism, flint-wheel ignition, and perforated windproof chimney.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; Small rectangular form factor intended for pocket carry.
Craftsmanship Details
Mass-produced industrial assembly. Hinge alignment is standard, but the emblem application lacks the precision of hand-wrought silver work.
Authentication Indicators
The absence of 'Sterling' or '925' marks, combined with the 'Bosnia Navy' branding and typical mass-produced hinge design, identifies this as a non-silver novelty item.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in China or Taiwan for the international novelty and souvenir market. These pieces mimic the construction of American Zippo lighters.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Late 20th Century (likely 1980s or 1990s based on the box typography and health warning layout).
Age Estimate
Circa 1985-1995. The 'Warning: Smoking is unhealthy' text layout was common in this period on novelty imports.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 20th-century boom in affordable personal accessories that democratized the aesthetic of luxury smoking tools.
Condition Notes
Good to Fair. The metal case shows heavy surface scratching (swirl marks) from use or pocket wear. The original cardboard box shows corner blunting and mild yellowing. The lighter interior may require a new flint and wick.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Value is driven by novelty and the presence of the original box rather than metal content.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth and mild metal polish (like Mother's Chrome Polish). Avoid abrasive cleaners. Store in its box to prevent further scratches. Replace flint and wick for functional use.
Similar Pieces
Genuine Zippo Lighters (which utilize higher quality brass and chrome), Colibri lighters, and various promotional 'Star' or 'Tiger' brand windproof lighters.
Interesting Facts
The brand 'Bosnia Navy' is a somewhat nonsensical marketing name, as Bosnia and Herzegovina has only a few kilometers of coastline and no substantial navy; such names were often chosen by export factories for their 'cool' or 'exotic' western sound.